The Independent National Electoral Commission has defended its choice of dates for the 2027 general elections, stating that the timetable was fixed in strict compliance with constitutional and legal provisions, while also acknowledging growing stakeholder concerns about possible clashes with major religious and national observances.
In a press statement issued on February 13, 2026, the Commission said the election schedule was derived directly from existing electoral regulations and guidelines, as well as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act 2022.
INEC explained that its Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, in force since 2019, clearly prescribe when general elections must be held.
According to the rules, presidential and National Assembly elections are to take place on the third Saturday of February in an election year, while governorship and state assembly elections are scheduled for two weeks later.
Based on these provisions, the Commission fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections.
The electoral body said the timetable was developed through lawful and established regulatory frameworks, stressing that the dates were not arbitrarily chosen but anchored in binding rules.
However, INEC acknowledged that concerns have been raised by stakeholders over the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognized holidays and religious observances.
The Commission said it is taking these representations seriously and remains attentive to issues that could affect voter participation and the smooth conduct of the polls.
According to the statement, consultations are currently underway, and the Commission may seek legislative intervention if adjustments become necessary.
It emphasized that any potential changes would still have to comply with constitutional and statutory requirements.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, inclusiveness, and the credible delivery of the 2027 general elections, adding that the public will be informed of any further decisions regarding the timetable.
